Elizabeth Neumann, a former high-ranking official in the Trump administration, recently voiced her concerns about the direction in which Donald Trump is leading his supporters. Speaking on MSNBC with host Katy Tur, Neumann described it as a “very, very dark place,” warning that his rhetoric could pose a threat to American values.
Neumann, who has held various roles at the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), believes that many Trump supporters are overlooking serious and authoritarian remarks he makes, treating them as jokes. She stated, “You need to take what he says seriously,” emphasizing that Trump’s desire to enact dictatorial powers is no laughing matter.
She expressed her belief that behind closed doors, Trump’s actions and instincts could genuinely frighten most Americans, pointing out his lack of humanity or decency when it comes to achieving his goals. “He is very dangerous, indeed,” she stressed.
According to Neumann, Trump’s potential return to power is less about differing policies and more about the fundamental character of the candidate. She questioned Trump’s commitment to the Constitution and the rule of law, stating that he regards such principles as mere constraints he’s willing to dismiss.
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Retired U.S. Marine Corps General John Kelly also expressed alarm over Trump’s behaviors, having witnessed him make controversial comments about historical figures, including Nazi dictator Adolf Hitler. Kelly labeled Trump a “fascist,” and referred to previous disparaging remarks Trump made about U.S. soldiers.
In response, Trump called Kelly a “lowlife,” claiming his former chief of staff had fabricated his accounts due to “Trump Derangement Syndrome.”
Neumann, along with over a dozen other former Trump officials, publicly supported Kelly’s comments, underscoring the potential dangers of another Trump term. She reiterated the importance of sounding the alarm to voters: “He is dangerous, unfit to serve, and desires to be an authoritarian.” Neumann concluded that it’s crucial for voices like hers and Kelly’s to warn the public about Trump’s influence.